UPND should hold convention to prove it’s democratic – Phiri

By BARNABAS ZULU

THE ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) should endeavour to convene its elective general assembly to elect its new leadership, stating the move would demonstrate the party’s commitment to democratic principles, Michael Zephaniah Phiri has said.
Mr Phiri, the political activist says democracy should not only be spoken about in public speeches but should also be practiced within political parties through regular and transparent internal elections.
“Democracy is not merely a slogan shouted at rallies or printed on campaign posters. It is a system of values demonstrated through actions, accountability and respect for the rule of law,” he said.
Mr Phiri questioned whether the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema was fully committed to democratic principles if the ruling party was failing to hold internal elections as provided for in both the country’s Constitution and the party’s own constitution.
Mr Phiri cited Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2016, particularly Article 60, which requires political parties to operate as democratic institutions and to conduct regular, free and fair elections.
“Article 60 clearly compels political parties to practice internal democracy and ensure that members can participate fully in party affairs,” he said.
According to Mr Phiri, the tenure of President Hichilema and the party’s National Management Committee expired on February 13, 2026, under the provisions of the UPND constitution.
He said Articles 56 and 60 of the party constitution require the National Management Committee to be elected by the General Assembly every five years, while Article 75 provides that the party president must also be elected by the same body within that period.
“Eligibility to contest for another term is not an exemption from elections. It simply means a leader can stand again, but the party must still hold a convention,” Mr Phiri said.
He further warned that delaying the convention risked creating the perception that democratic standards were being applied selectively.
“Democracy cannot survive under conditions where there appears to be one set of rules for the ruling party and another for everyone else,” he said.
Mr Phiri also expressed concern over political messaging suggesting prolonged leadership, stating that democracy is founded on the principle that power belongs to the people and leaders remain temporary custodians of that authority.